A baby demonstrates asymmetric pathological reflexes and microcephaly at a 9-month checkup. The baby appeared normal at birth. What action by the healthcare professional is best?
A)Determine the baby's risk for developing an HIV infection since birth.
B)Assess the baby for other signs of child abuse or neglect.
C)Ask the mother if she uses drugs or alcohol in excess.
D)Perform spinal cord imaging and other diagnostic studies.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A particularly vulnerable site of HIV-1 infection in infants and children is the CNS. This baby demonstrates manifestations of HIV infection, which include failure to attain or loss of previously developed milestones or intellectual functioning, impaired brain growth or acquired microcephaly, and acquired symmetric motor deficits manifested by two or more of these: paresis, pathologic reflexes, ataxia, or gait disturbances. The healthcare professional should assess the baby for his or her risks of contracting HIV infection. Part of the assessment would include the mother's drug history, but many other factors must be considered. Since these manifestations are specific to HIV infection, there is no reason to suspect child abuse or perform imaging specifically on the spinal cord.

A Baby Demonstrates Asymmetric Pathological Reflexes and Microcephaly at a 9-Month